Pictured (L-R, back row): Warner Chappell’s Jessi Stevenson, Big Loud’s Mike Giangreco, Anthem Entertainment’s Courtney Crist, Red Creative Group’s Taylor Lamb, Concord’s Brad Kennard, Triple 8 Management’s George Couri and Sony Music Nashville’s Dennis Reese; (L-R, front row): BMI’s MaryAnn Keen, Brett Tyler, Kelly Archer, Corey Kent, Chris Farren and Studio Bank’s Ron Cox. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
BMI hosted their first No. 1 celebration of 2024 on Tuesday afternoon (Feb. 20) for Corey Kent‘s first-ever chart-topper “Wild as Her,” a Chris Farren-produced track written by Kelly Archer, Brett Tyler and Morgan Wallen.
Excitement and pride for the song’s creators emitted from fellow industry members as they filled the lobby. BMI’s MaryAnn Keen kicked things off by calling Kent, Farren, Tyler and Archer to the stage.
She shared that although Wallen couldn’t to make it to the event, everyone was happy that he was able to be there that day to co-write the Platinum-certified single. Keen moved on to talk about Tyler, who notched his second No. 1 with “Wild as Her.” She described his years of hard work and patience, and advised the crowd “not to sleep on him” as she called him “the next big thing.” Keen then brought attention to Archer and the significant impact she’s had as a female songwriter in the country format. She continued by noting that the songstress now has four No. 1s under her belt and listing the numerous accolades Archer has collected over the course her career thus far. Keen finished by addressing Kent and spotlighted his explosion in the Nashville music scene as well as the support he shows fellow songwriters by recording outside cuts.
The artist’s adorable son made his way on stage to sit on his dad’s lap as Anthem Entertainment’s Courtney Crist stepped up to the mic. Crist expressed her love for the hit and referred to it as “a song every songwriter wishes they had written.” She stated how happy Anthem is to represent Tyler and Archer and thanked all of their partners as well as Farren and Kent for their involvement before congratulating the contributors. Red Creative Group’s Taylor Lamb took the floor to applaude each person that helped get “Wild as Her” to where it is today and speak more about Archer.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Liza Anderson, Brett Tyler, Kelly Archer, Corey Kent, Chris Farren and MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
“Kelly doesn’t give up on her songs, and this song is a prime example [of that],” he said. “She knows what will connect with fans, because she has been one and continues to be one. She also pushes for the song to be highest quality it can be in the writers’ room and it comes through.” Lamb added, “Kelly doesn’t give up on herself. There are many moments throughout her story where she could’ve thrown in towel and moved back home but because of her confidence and God-given gift to write songs, her music continues to impact countless people. Finally, Kelly doesn’t give up on her people. She fights hard for the people she cares for and trusts her team.”
Big Loud’s Mike Giangreco was on deck to represent Wallen noting, “It’s always important to [Morgan] to celebrate the songwriters, and it’s important to him that he’s a songwriter on another No. 1 song,” and took some time to thank BMI and the teams included in the accomplishment while congratulating Kent, Farren, Tyler and Archer.
Up next was Warner Chappell Music’s Jessi Stevenson, who explained that “Wild as Her” is a testament to the fact that maybe the artist a song is meant for isn’t ready or in town yet and goes to show that writers should never give up on the work in their catalogs. She wrapped by acknowledging all of the contributing companies and commending the track’s creatives.
Concord’s Brad Kennard spoke on behalf of Matt Turner, who was unable to attend. He followed his praises of the singer, producer and writers by reading a special statement from Turner, who witnessed the full evolution of “Wild as Her.” Studio Bank’s Ron Cox then stepped up to emphasize how sacred and special these parties are and announce that a donation had been in Kent and the songwriters’ names to the Tim Tebow Foundation, which provides worldwide support to vulnerable people living in chaos and crisis. Country Aircheck‘s Chuck Aly took the stage to discuss how the tune influenced the country music conversation before Sony Music Nashville’s Dennis Reese took the stage to tell the more of the story behind the song and salute those who gave it life. Reese recalled hearing “Wild as Her” for the first time and detailed texting Steve Hodges immediately after hearing it about how he wanted it on RCA while describing what led to Kent’s signing.
“It takes a lot not just to get a song to No. 1, but to be a song that really has staying power,” he stated. “This song is still streaming almost four million a week—that’s the sign of a hit to me. It’s something people want to go back to over and over and it becomes a part of the soundtrack of their lives.”
Farren then expressed his gratitude and appreciation for his team members and the other individuals that played key roles the smash single’s success while recounting its growth. “There’s so much goodwill surrounding this song, it really fills me with a lot of satisfaction and joy,” he said. Farren recognized the writers before shining a light on Kent. “I’ve been lucky enough to work with a lot of artists over the years, some really good ones. In a world where it’s really hard sometimes to distinguish the really good from the mediocre, because there’s a lot of mediocre, [Corey] is the real deal. There’s nothing fake about what he does.”
Archer was the first writer to speak and thanked all of the contributing parties for their hard work and belief in “Wild as Her.” Among the many individual shoutouts, she gave a special one to Red Creative Group’s Jeremy Stover for talking her into staying in Nashville, and moved into recognizing her fellow collaborators and Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), where she serves on the Board of Directors. “Everyone who came out today, I really appreciate you all—from my co-writers to my friends,” Archer shared before informing everyone of the important work NSAI does for songwriters.
Tyler then took the stage to crack a few jokes and make us all laugh, while sincerely stating his admiration for his fellow creators and the musicians and engineers involved. He moved on to thank all of those in both his personal corner and his professional corner. Humorous yet touching, Tyler concluded, “I want to thank TJ Maxx for dressing me, my wife’s Starbucks habit for stressing me, the devil for testing me and Corey singing ‘Wild as Her’ for blessing for me.”
Finally, Kent took the mic, a ray of light beaming through the lobby onto him. He started by thanking his family, God and every group involved in his milestone song. Kent finished by lauding Archer, Tyler and Wallen. “At the end of the day, as honored as I am to be standing up here, this in my mind is a songwriters’ award. So please, one more time, make some noise for the people that wrote this song.”
Corey Kent Celebrates First Chart-Topper ‘Wild As Her’ With No. 1 Party
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L-R, back row): Warner Chappell’s Jessi Stevenson, Big Loud’s Mike Giangreco, Anthem Entertainment’s Courtney Crist, Red Creative Group’s Taylor Lamb, Concord’s Brad Kennard, Triple 8 Management’s George Couri and Sony Music Nashville’s Dennis Reese; (L-R, front row): BMI’s MaryAnn Keen, Brett Tyler, Kelly Archer, Corey Kent, Chris Farren and Studio Bank’s Ron Cox. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
BMI hosted their first No. 1 celebration of 2024 on Tuesday afternoon (Feb. 20) for Corey Kent‘s first-ever chart-topper “Wild as Her,” a Chris Farren-produced track written by Kelly Archer, Brett Tyler and Morgan Wallen.
Excitement and pride for the song’s creators emitted from fellow industry members as they filled the lobby. BMI’s MaryAnn Keen kicked things off by calling Kent, Farren, Tyler and Archer to the stage.
She shared that although Wallen couldn’t to make it to the event, everyone was happy that he was able to be there that day to co-write the Platinum-certified single. Keen moved on to talk about Tyler, who notched his second No. 1 with “Wild as Her.” She described his years of hard work and patience, and advised the crowd “not to sleep on him” as she called him “the next big thing.” Keen then brought attention to Archer and the significant impact she’s had as a female songwriter in the country format. She continued by noting that the songstress now has four No. 1s under her belt and listing the numerous accolades Archer has collected over the course her career thus far. Keen finished by addressing Kent and spotlighted his explosion in the Nashville music scene as well as the support he shows fellow songwriters by recording outside cuts.
The artist’s adorable son made his way on stage to sit on his dad’s lap as Anthem Entertainment’s Courtney Crist stepped up to the mic. Crist expressed her love for the hit and referred to it as “a song every songwriter wishes they had written.” She stated how happy Anthem is to represent Tyler and Archer and thanked all of their partners as well as Farren and Kent for their involvement before congratulating the contributors. Red Creative Group’s Taylor Lamb took the floor to applaude each person that helped get “Wild as Her” to where it is today and speak more about Archer.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow‘s Liza Anderson, Brett Tyler, Kelly Archer, Corey Kent, Chris Farren and MusicRow‘s LB Cantrell. Photo: Steve Lowry for BMI
“Kelly doesn’t give up on her songs, and this song is a prime example [of that],” he said. “She knows what will connect with fans, because she has been one and continues to be one. She also pushes for the song to be highest quality it can be in the writers’ room and it comes through.” Lamb added, “Kelly doesn’t give up on herself. There are many moments throughout her story where she could’ve thrown in towel and moved back home but because of her confidence and God-given gift to write songs, her music continues to impact countless people. Finally, Kelly doesn’t give up on her people. She fights hard for the people she cares for and trusts her team.”
Big Loud’s Mike Giangreco was on deck to represent Wallen noting, “It’s always important to [Morgan] to celebrate the songwriters, and it’s important to him that he’s a songwriter on another No. 1 song,” and took some time to thank BMI and the teams included in the accomplishment while congratulating Kent, Farren, Tyler and Archer.
Up next was Warner Chappell Music’s Jessi Stevenson, who explained that “Wild as Her” is a testament to the fact that maybe the artist a song is meant for isn’t ready or in town yet and goes to show that writers should never give up on the work in their catalogs. She wrapped by acknowledging all of the contributing companies and commending the track’s creatives.
Concord’s Brad Kennard spoke on behalf of Matt Turner, who was unable to attend. He followed his praises of the singer, producer and writers by reading a special statement from Turner, who witnessed the full evolution of “Wild as Her.” Studio Bank’s Ron Cox then stepped up to emphasize how sacred and special these parties are and announce that a donation had been in Kent and the songwriters’ names to the Tim Tebow Foundation, which provides worldwide support to vulnerable people living in chaos and crisis. Country Aircheck‘s Chuck Aly took the stage to discuss how the tune influenced the country music conversation before Sony Music Nashville’s Dennis Reese took the stage to tell the more of the story behind the song and salute those who gave it life. Reese recalled hearing “Wild as Her” for the first time and detailed texting Steve Hodges immediately after hearing it about how he wanted it on RCA while describing what led to Kent’s signing.
“It takes a lot not just to get a song to No. 1, but to be a song that really has staying power,” he stated. “This song is still streaming almost four million a week—that’s the sign of a hit to me. It’s something people want to go back to over and over and it becomes a part of the soundtrack of their lives.”
Farren then expressed his gratitude and appreciation for his team members and the other individuals that played key roles the smash single’s success while recounting its growth. “There’s so much goodwill surrounding this song, it really fills me with a lot of satisfaction and joy,” he said. Farren recognized the writers before shining a light on Kent. “I’ve been lucky enough to work with a lot of artists over the years, some really good ones. In a world where it’s really hard sometimes to distinguish the really good from the mediocre, because there’s a lot of mediocre, [Corey] is the real deal. There’s nothing fake about what he does.”
Archer was the first writer to speak and thanked all of the contributing parties for their hard work and belief in “Wild as Her.” Among the many individual shoutouts, she gave a special one to Red Creative Group’s Jeremy Stover for talking her into staying in Nashville, and moved into recognizing her fellow collaborators and Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), where she serves on the Board of Directors. “Everyone who came out today, I really appreciate you all—from my co-writers to my friends,” Archer shared before informing everyone of the important work NSAI does for songwriters.
Tyler then took the stage to crack a few jokes and make us all laugh, while sincerely stating his admiration for his fellow creators and the musicians and engineers involved. He moved on to thank all of those in both his personal corner and his professional corner. Humorous yet touching, Tyler concluded, “I want to thank TJ Maxx for dressing me, my wife’s Starbucks habit for stressing me, the devil for testing me and Corey singing ‘Wild as Her’ for blessing for me.”
Finally, Kent took the mic, a ray of light beaming through the lobby onto him. He started by thanking his family, God and every group involved in his milestone song. Kent finished by lauding Archer, Tyler and Wallen. “At the end of the day, as honored as I am to be standing up here, this in my mind is a songwriters’ award. So please, one more time, make some noise for the people that wrote this song.”
Morgan Evans To Release Live Album From Sydney Opera House Shows
/by Lorie HollabaughMorgan Evans will release his album Live At The Sydney Opera House on Friday, April 12.
The live album was recorded over his two sold-out shows at the Sydney Opera House in September 2023. Featuring tracks from his Life Upside Down EP, his hits and special guest collaborations with Australian icon John Williamson and Kita Alexander, the project captures the electrifying energy of the tour.
“It was an absolute honor, and a joy, to play the shows at the Sydney Opera House,” says Evans. “Playing that place is probably a momentous occasion for anyone, but for an Aussie, it’s the one. There was a vibration in the room those nights, like we knew, like everyone knew it was going to be special, and in that beautiful, cavernous concert hall we sang and played country music the only way we know how! There were a lot of truly magical moments, and I’d like to think people will hear and feel them all on this record. But most of all I hope they feel what we felt leaving the stage that night, an Aussie pride, like we were in it together, and like everything is going to be alright.”
Evans will return to Australia this March and April for a regional run of dates for the “Life Upside Down Tour,” performing in places he missed last year. Kicking off at Country Fest QLD in Bloomsbury on March 30, he will then visit Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Geelong, Bendigo, Hobart and Perth. The tour is a continuation of the sold-out run of dates he performed in 2023, where at the end, he was surprised with a plaque for one million ARIA certified single sales.
Live At The Sydney Opera House Track List:
1. Young Again
2. Country Outta My Girl
3. Kiss Somebody
4. Waltzing Matilda (Interlude)
5. Love Is Real
6. I Can’t Make You Love Me (Interlude)
7. Over For You
8. Say What You Want
9. Date Night feat. Kita Alexander
10. Rip Rip Woodchip feat. John Williamson
11. Dedications Interlude
12. Things That We Drink To
13. Pete and Brownie Go To Town (Interlude)
14. Hey Little Mama
15. Day Drunk
16. I Still Call Australia Home (Interlude)
17. On My Own Again
FlyteVu Announces New Hires & Staff Promotions
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Linda Knight, Brooks Parker and Purvi Patel
Entertainment marketing agency FlyteVu has hired Linda Knight as Creative Mentor & Advisor, Brooks Parker as VP of Business Development and Purvi Patel as Account Director.
The company has also promoted Brewer Adams to VP of Production, Nicole Ranieri to VP of Accounts, Brittany Rashkin Canty to VP of Publicity, Miriam Singer to VP of HR & Operations, Ally Venable to VP of Talent and Scott Bennett to Chief Financial Officer. FlyteVu Co-Founders Laura Hutfless and Jeremy Holley will continue to oversee the company, and Sina Seger will continue to lead as General Manager.
Prior to joining the agency, Knight was the Chief Creative Officer and President of Observatory, an award-winning creative agency. She began her career at Wieden+Kennedy and has since earned recognition as one of Business Insider’s 30 Most Creative Women in Advertising and one of Adweek‘s 2023 100 Creative Leaders. Knight has developed ad campaigns for the Olympics, World Cup and Super Bowl for brands including Nike, Chipotle and Adidas. As Creative Mentor & Advisor, she will mentor and grow FlyteVu’s Creative team and help to elevate client campaigns.
Parker most recently spent five years in business development and sales at an experiential marketing agency. Since graduating with a degree in commercial music from Belmont University, he has also worked as an artist manager supporting Amy Grant and as a celebrity talent relations coordinator for UpTV. As VP of Business Development, Parker will oversee brand and client relationships to build strategic partnerships that optimize the company’s future growth and profitability.
With over 14 years of experience, Patel comes to FlyteVu after serving as President of Claima, a Black and Asian-owned media and storytelling agency rooted in representation with a mission to create more inclusive tables for entrepreneurs and creatives of color to sit at and thrive. Prior to joining Claima, she spearheaded influencer marketing and partnerships at Reebok and Sperry with the Jaws and Minions enterprises and landed the first-ever deals with established TikTok and YouTube content creators.
Additionally, FlyteVu has expanded its roster with new clients such as Ashley Global Retail, a leading furniture and mattress retailer in North America; Ashley Dufresne Spencer Group (DSG), the largest Ashley licensee in North America; Farnam, a leading supplier of quality horse care products under the Central Garden & Pet Company; Ice Barrel, a leading innovator in accessible at-home cold therapy products; and more.
Final Lineup Revealed For Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley At CRS 2024
/by LB CantrellCountry Radio Seminar (CRS) has revealed the complete lineup of talent for Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley, set to take place on Thursday, Feb. 29
The evening will host three rounds, showcasing a mix of established stars and successful songwriters. The event will kick-off at 7:00 p.m. CT.
Rhett Akins, Emily Weisband and JT Harding will make up round one, while John Morgan, Scooter Carusoe, Brent Anderson and Jason Aldean will perform at round two. Previously-announced Hall of Fame songwriter Keith Urban will close out the evening’s writers rounds.
Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley will be hosted by Fitz from Country Top 40, with Radio Ink presenting its Top Country PDs awards during the festivities.
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Beyoncé ‘Summons You To The Country Dance Floor’
/by Robert K OermannBeyoncé
The single that is on everyone’s tongue this week is also DISClaimer’s Disc of the Day. That would be Beyonce’s bopper.
Black country women are in the spotlight in general this week, as the column also notes efforts by Autumn Nichols, the esteemed Joy Oladokun and our DISCovery Award winner, Camille Parker.
But be sure and save some listening time for Priscilla Block, Tracy Lawrence, Allie Colleen and Bailey Zimmerman. They’re bringing their “A” game, too.
MATT STELL/ “Born Lonely”
Writers: Benjy Davis/Jake Mitchell/Matt Stell; Producer: Joe Fox; Label: Records Nashville/Columbia
– To join his radio favorite “Breakin’ in Boots” in welcoming 2024, this former chart topper has issued this track and its new music video. The lyric traces the inability to fall in love, the persistence of heartbreak and psychic wounds that won’t heal. The only comfort is that she has those same feelings and that maybe they belong together. As always, he is a solid vocal communicator.
BEYONCÉ/ “Texas Hold ‘Em”
Writers: Beyoncé/Brian Bates/Elizabeth Lowell Boland/Megan Bülow/Nate Ferraro/Raphael Saadiq; Producers: Beyoncé/Raphael Saadiq/Nate Ferraro/Killah B/Hit-Boy/Stuart White.Mariel Gomerez; Label: Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia
– Queen Bey summons you to the country dancefloor, and you dare not refuse. The beats are irresistible, the tune is catchy and the vibe is fun, fun, fun. A much deserved smash.
REDFERRIN/ “Lose Her For Nothin’”
Writers: Blake Redferrin/Cooper Bascom/Rose Falcon; Producers: Cooper Bascom/Redferrin; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– This downbeat, moody jam puts a loser’s life on repeat. This guy has previously perked up ears with “Doin’ Life” and “Jack and Diet Coke,” so he’s on a roll.
TRACY LAWRENCE/ “Out Here In It”
Writers: Chris Utley/Lee Miller/Trey Lewis; Producers: Tracy Lawrence/Julian King; Label: Lawrence Music Group
– It’s kinda philosophical, kinda thoughtful, kinda mellow and all the way listenable. He remains a superb country vocalist and the strings-and-steel embellished production perfectly underscores his meditation. Lend this your ears.
JOY OLADOKUN/ “If You Got A Problem”
Writers: Peter Groenwald/Ian Fitchuk/Olubukola Oladokun; Producers: Peter Groenwald/Ian Fitchuk; Label: Verve Forecast/Republic Records
– This Nashvillian scored a big career coup this week when she performed this ballad on the CBS special Dolly Parton’s Pet Gala on Wednesday evening (Feb. 21). The folk-pop production ripples with audio pleasure, while her silken vocal conveys hope, inspiration and fidelity. If you’re not already into this artist, start here and then explore both of her exquisite albums, In Defense of My Own Happiness (2021) and Proof of Life (2023).
PAT BOONE/ “My Stupid Tattoo”
Writers: Damon Leigh/David John Siebels; Producer: David Siebels; Label: The Gold Label
– Boone turns 90 this year, but he’s still in there swingin.’ On the heels of his 2023 Country Jubilee album, the former pop balladeer has issued this goofy, comedic bopper that cautions us not to put a girlfriend’s name in ink, ‘cause you might regret it later. Tap your toes and smile.
ALLIE COLLEEN (FT. LEE BRICE)/ “While We’re Still Friends”
Writers: Allie Colleen/Lee Brice/Sara Brice; Producers: Lee Brice/Jerrod Niemann/Allie Colleen; Label: Evangeline Records
– Colleen issues her finest vocal performance to date on this luscious, gorgeously produced power ballad. Her gleaming, shining-crystal delivery beams from an echoey, swirling-smoke soundscape to convey a goodbye-song lyric that looks back with fondness. I wish Brice had a verse of his own, but nevertheless his harmony vocal is a gem. Excellent work.
BAILEY ZIMMERMAN/ “Holy Smokes”
Writers: Bailey Zimmerman/Austin Shawn/Ben Stennis/Michael Tyler/Lauren Hungate; Producer: Austin Shawn; Label: Elektra
– Romancing the preacher’s daughter in the church parking lot. Cigarette embers glow and smoke twirls around them, hence the title. Zimmerman’s story telling skill and assured vocal are both in full sail here. Captivating.
AUTUMN NICHOLS/ “Slow Down”
Writers: Autumn Nicole Nicholas/Bonnie J. Baker/Tori Tullier; Producers: Bonnie J. Baker; Label: A+N Records
– She sings wonderfully. The ballad starts too slowly, but gradually picks up potency.
PRISCILLA BLOCK/ “Good On You”
Writers: David Garcia/Jessie Jo Dillon/Laura Veltz/Priscilla Block; Producers: David Garcia/Dave Cohen; Label: UMGN InDent Records
– Loved her on “My Bar,” “Thick Thighs,” “Heels in Hand,” “Peaked in High School” and the rest of her outstanding Welcome to the Block Party collection in 2022-23. Now Block returns with a dandy ode that addresses her ex with sass. She knows she’s trashy and honky-tonk loud compared to his goody-two-shoes new girlfriend. But she’s cool with it. So am I. And how. “Vanilla ain’t me/It ain’t ever gonna be,” she warbles.
CAMILLE PARKER/ “Spinning Out”
Writers: Camille Parker/Sara Bares/Reid Sorel; Producers: Reid Sorel; Label: CP
– Breezy, danceable and very, very pop. This hasn’t stopped her from being a CMT Next Women of Country alumnus and CMA Fest performer who staged her Opry debut last weekend. The latter event was noteworthy in that her appearance on the iconic stage was cheered backstage by her country sisters in song Rissi Palmer, Madeline Edwards, Sacha, Tiera Kennedy, Denitia and Miko Marks.
JAIME WYATT/ “Back To The Country”
Writers: Jaime Wyatt/Ryan Hartman; Producer: Adrian Quesada; Label: New West Records
– She has a somewhat raw, garage-y, country-rocking sound with plenty of personality and an unstoppable vocal wail. During the past year, Wyatt has gigged at Austin City Limits, the Opry, the Newport Folk Festival and Stagecoach, plus toured with Sierra Ferrell, Nikki Lane, Margo Price, Grace Potter and The Avett Brothers. This week, she sang this on Kelly Clarkson’s TV show.
Weekly Register: Beyoncé & Toby Keith Infiltrate Top Five On Country Charts
/by Liza AndersonBeyoncé & Toby Keith
Beyoncé and the late Toby Keith infiltrate the top five on the country charts this week, according to Luminate data.
Beyoncé’s genre debut “Texas Hold ‘Em” premiered at No. 2 on the country streaming songs chart—and No. 4 overall—based on audio streams, with 17 million streams. Additionally, the tune reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, making her the first Black woman to top the list. Following his passing on Feb. 5, Keith’s 35 Biggest Hits collection takes No. 2 on the country albums chart with 46K in total consumption (7K album only/43 million song streams).
Based on audio streams, Zach Bryan and Kacey Musgraves‘ “I Remember Everything” rules atop the country streaming songs chart with 18 million new streams, adding to 506 million ATD. Morgan Wallen‘s “Last Night” comes in at No. 3 with 12 million streams, adding to 1.208 billion ATD. Bryan’s “Something In The Orange” shifts down to the fourth slot with 11.6 million new streams, adding to 1.230 billion ATD, while Luke Combs‘ “Fast Car” cover returns to the top five in the fifth slot with 11 million streams, adding to 630 million ATD.
Elsewhere on the country albums chart, Wallen’s One Thing At A Time reigns at the top with 64K (2.1K album only/80 million song streams). Zach Bryan descends to No. 3 with 39K (3.3K album only/46 million song streams), followed by Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album at No. 4 with 35K (384 album only/45 million song streams). Bryan’s American Heartbreak falls to No. 5 with 26K (1.1K album only/33 million song streams.
Jelly Roll To Launch ‘Beautifully Broken Tour’ In August
/by Lorie HollabaughJelly Roll will embark on his new “Beautifully Broken Tour” beginning Aug. 27 in Salt Lake City.
The 37-date arena tour marks the Nashville native’s biggest headlining tour to date, and will include stops in New York, L.A., Boston, Chicago, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New Orleans and more before wrapping in Charlotte at Spectrum Center on Oct. 27. Warren Zeiders and Alexandra Kay will join as support on the dates.
Tickets will be available starting with various presales beginning Feb. 26. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on-sale beginning March 1 at jellyroll615.com. Fans can also purchase VIP Packages, which may include premium seats, backstage tour and group photo, VIP lounge, limited edition tour poster, merchandise and more.
Jelly Roll continues to dominate on the charts and beyond. His single “Save Me” became his third consecutive No. 1 in 2023 following his multi-week No. 1 hits on country and rock radio, “Need A Favor” and “Son Of A Sinner.” His latest single “Halfway To Hell” is currently at country radio now.
“Beautifully Broken 2024 Tour” Dates:
Aug. 27 – Salt Lake City, UT – Delta Center
Aug. 28 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center
Aug. 30 – Spokane, WA – Spokane Arena
Aug. 31 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena
Sept. 1 – Portland, OR – Moda Center
Sept. 3 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center
Sept. 4 – Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center
Sept. 6 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena
Sept. 7 – Anaheim, CA – Honda Center
Sept. 9 – El Paso, TX – Don Haskins Center
Sept. 11 – San Antonio, TX – Frost Bank Center
Sept. 13 – Lafayette, LA – CAJUNDOME
Sept. 14 – New Orleans, LA – Smoothie King Center
Sept. 17 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center
Sept. 19 – Charleston, SC – North Charleston Coliseum
Sept. 20 – Raleigh, NC – PNC Arena
Sept. 21 – Washington, D.C. – Capital One Arena
Sept. 24 – Albany, NY – MVP Arena
Sept. 26 – Boston, MA – TD Garden
Sept. 27 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
Sept. 28 – Belmont Park, NY – UBS Arena
Sept. 29 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center
Oct. 1 – State College, PA – Bryce Jordan Center
Oct. 2 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center
Oct. 5 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena
Oct. 6 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center
Oct. 9 – Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena
Oct. 11 – Chicago, IL – United Center
Oct. 12 – Louisville, KY – KFC Yum! Center
Oct. 15 – Wichita, KS – INTRUST Bank Arena
Oct. 18 – Tulsa, OK – BOK Center
Oct. 20 – Bossier City, LA – Brookshire Grocery Arena
Oct. 22 – Little Rock, AR – Simmons Bank Arena
Oct. 23 – St Louis, MO – Enterprise Center
Oct. 25 – Knoxville, TN – Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center
Oct. 26 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena
Oct. 27 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center
Black Opry Third Anniversary Show To Honor Alice Randall
/by Lorie HollabaughThe Change Agent·cy, Oh Boy Records and Wrangler will present The Black Opry Three Year Anniversary Celebration Honoring Alice Randall on April 25 at the City Winery in Nashville.
Throughout her career, Randall has been one of the few Black female writers on Nashville’s Music Row, and the first to pen a No. 1 hit with Trisha Yearwood’s “XXXs and OOOs.” Her songs have been recorded by multiple generations of country artists, from Yearwood to Glen Campbell, Mo Bandy and Marie Osmond.
As part of its mission to uplift the Black country music community, the Black Opry will honor author and songwriter Randall and the release of her upcoming book My Black Country—out April 9—and the accompanying album My Black Country The Songs of Alice Randall—out April 12 via Oh Boy Records—in this special celebration.
The show will include performances of unreleased tracks from Randall’s catalog, as well as original music from Black Opry Revue performers to celebrate the past, present and future of Black country music. Tickets go on sale Feb. 23 and can be purchased at citywinery.com/nashville. Performers and special guests will be announced soon.
“What better way to commemorate the Black Opry’s third anniversary than to salute the one-and-only Alice Randall—a key figure in Black country music history and a woman who deserves to be honored and heard,” says Black Opry Co-Founder Holly G. “We look forward to welcoming many of our Black Opry Revue touring members to the stage, along with special guests, in what promises to be a night of celebration and love.”
My Black Country The Songs of Alice Randall is an exploration of the history of Black contributions to the country, roots and folk genres, and a poignant reclamation of Randall’s own work depicting powerful Black narratives. Among the artists appearing on the album are Rhiannon Giddens, who interprets “The Ballad Of Sally Anne.”
Of the album, Randall shares, “Because all the singers of my songs had been white, because country has white-washed Black lives out of country space, most of my audience assumed the stars of my songs were all white. I wanted to rescue my Black characters. This album does that; it centers black female creativity, but it welcomes co-creators and allies from a myriad of identities. This is the good harvest: abundant love and beauty for all.”
Details Revealed For CRS Honors
/by Lorie HollabaughDetails have been revealed for this year’s Country Radio Seminar (CRS) Honors, which will be held on day two (Feb. 29) of the three-day conference, unlike previous years, at the Omni Nashville Hotel.
During the event, Kane Brown will be recognized alongside Tim Leary for each of their humanitarian efforts. Hosted by CRS Executive Director RJ Curtis and Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) Board President Kurt Johnson, the afternoon will also include the Country Radio Hall of Fame Class of 2024 unveiling as well as a performance by The War And Treaty, paying tribute to industry colleagues during the “In Memoriam” segment.
Additionally, CRS will introduce a new mentoring program, developed in partnership with Mentoring & Inspiring Women (MIW), aimed at nurturing the next generation of industry professionals.
CRS 2024 will take place Feb. 28-March 1. Online registration is now closed, and will reopen on-site at the Omni Nashville Hotel. For more information, click here.
Dan Dymtrow & Jamie Sudhalter Join The Core Entertainment
/by Madison HahnenDan Dymtrow (Photo: Anna Webber) & Jamie Sudhalter (Photo: Meredith Truax)
Talent management company The Core Entertainment has announced the expansion of its team with the appointment of Dan Dymtrow as General Manager and Jamie Sudhalter as Senior Director of A&R.
“We are so excited to welcome Dan and Jamie to our team at The Core Entertainment. Their enthusiasm, expertise and passion for discovering and developing talent align perfectly with our vision,” shares Co-Founders Kevin “Chief” Zaruk and Simon Tikhman. “We know they will play integral roles in driving our company into the future and we look forward to achieving new heights together.”
Dymtrow brings over 20 years of management and executive experience. He has worked with global superstars including Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, Aerosmith, Taylor Swift, Noah Cyrus and more. Dymtrow joins The Core Entertainment team after serving as Executive Manager at Maverick Management and Head of Music at Curio. In this new role, he will be responsible for overseeing all operations, including artist management, content creation, live events and partnerships.
“Throughout my career, guiding artists’ development has been paramount, and supporting the next generation of managers is incredibly important to me,” shares Dymtrow. “I’m excited to be in this GM role alongside respected colleagues like Chief Zaruk and Simon Tikhman. I’m inspired by their achievements and eager to collaborate closely with them to advance The Core’s objectives for our team and artists.”
With more than a decade of experience, Sudhalter also brings a wealth of knowledge to the company. The Vanderbilt University graduate has worked on projects for Hailee Steinfeld, AJR, Lyn Lapid and BoyWithUke, among others. Sudhalter most recently served as Senior Director of A&R at Mercury Records and signed U.K. artist Mae Stephens, who earned an RIAA Gold certification in January. In her new position, she will play a vital role in identifying new talent to build a strong and diverse roster.
“Simon and Chief are two of the most humble, innovative and well-respected people in the industry. I couldn’t be more grateful to them for taking a chance on me and welcoming me with open arms onto the amazing team they have cultivated,” shares Sudhalter. “Joining this team and their dynamic roster marks a significant milestone in my career, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to contribute to the company’s mission of fostering artistic growth and development.”